Pool Safety Statistics 2011 to 2021
Between 2011 and 2021, Queensland recorded 40 drowning deaths of children aged 0–4 years in regulated swimming pools. Additionally, 853 children in the same age group received medical attention following non-fatal immersion incidents during this period.
Non-fatal immersions can have serious consequences, including brain or organ damage, impacting long-term health outcomes and quality of life. Research indicates that among children aged 0–4 years, for every fatal drowning, there are approximately 21 non-fatal immersions.
It’s important to note that while the number of total immersion incidents has increased over time, the rate of immersions per 1,000 pools has remained steady. This suggests that increases in the number of total immersions are largely in line with the number of swimming pools registered each year.
These statistics highlight the critical importance of pool safety measures, including compliant fencing and active supervision, to prevent both fatal and non-fatal drowning incidents among young children in Queensland.
